Publications

Abstract

Apelin binds to the G protein-coupled apelin receptor (APJ; gene name aplnr) to modulate diverse physiological systems including cardiovascular function, and hydromineral and metabolic balance. Recently a second endogenous ligand for APJ, named apela, has been discovered. We confirm that apela activates signal transduction pathways (ERK activation) in cells expressing the cloned rat APJ.

Apelin binds to the G protein-coupled apelin receptor (APJ; gene name aplnr) to modulate diverse physiological systems including cardiovascular function, and hydromineral and metabolic balance. Recently a second endogenous ligand for APJ, named apela, has been discovered. We confirm that apela activates signal transduction pathways (ERK activation) in cells expressing the cloned rat APJ.

The somatosensory system provides animals with the ability to detect, distinguish, and respond to diverse thermal, mechanical, and irritating stimuli. While there has been progress in defining classes of neurons underlying temperature sensation and gentle touch, less is known about the neurons specific for mechanical pain.

Abstract

The constant regeneration of stomach epithelium is driven by long-lived stem cells, but the mechanism that regulates their turnover is not well understood. We have recently found that the gastric pathogen Helicobacter pylori can activate gastric stem cells and increase epithelial turnover, while Wnt signalling is known to be important for stem cell identity and epithelial regeneration in several tissues.

Abstract

Background and Aims

Sonic hedgehog (SHH) is an essential morphogenetic signal dictating cell fate decisions in several developing organs in mammals. In vitrodata suggest that SHH is required to specify LHX3+/LHX4+ Rathke's pouch (RP) progenitor identity.

Successful repair and renewal of alveolar epithelial cells are critical in prohibiting the accumulation of myofibroblasts in pulmonary fibrogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are multi-focal regulators involved in lung injury and repair. But the contribution of miRNAs to AEC2 renewal and apoptosis is incompletely understood. We report that microRNA-29c (MiR-29c) expression is lower in AEC2s of individuals with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) than healthy lungs.

In 2014 we observed a noticeable increase in sudden deaths of green tree pythons (Morelia viridis). Pathological examination revealed accumulation of mucoid material within airways and lung, associated with enlargement of the entire lung.